Voltaren is used in the treatment of pain or inflammation caused by arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. It might also be used by your doctor in other cases as he deems fit.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

You may choose to take Voltaren with a meal or without one.

Please drink a full glass of water with Voltaren.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Voltaren is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). It reduces the hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Voltaren at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). You may also store it at 59 to 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) for a limited time. Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using Voltaren if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you have conditions like severe allergic reaction (e.g., severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, dizziness) to another NSAID (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib) or aspirin.

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) medicine then mention it to your doctor.

Voltaren may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages or certain other medicines. So please avoid them while using Voltaren. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).

The use of Voltaren in children is not recommended as its safety when used on children is not determined.

Pregnancy Info

If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Voltaren to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Voltaren as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.